Enjoy A Perfect Night On The Town
Spend golden hour with a meal, a treat and a walk in some of Bergen’s best downtowns.
We are truly spoiled by the long, warm evenings of a New Jersey summer. Golden hour stretches out leisurely, offering ample time for after-dinner walks and outdoor pleasures.
Taking the family on a neighborhood stroll when the sun starts to set will never go amiss, but you can go beyond that in Bergen. The county’s best downtowns offer the perfect place to grab a meal, browse shops and locales and end the night with the season’s best ice cream.
Whether you’re looking for a full-family outing or an intimate date night, these destinations will deliver an unforgettable summer evening:
Englewood. Have time before a show at Bergen Performing Arts Center? Want to take in some of the historic architecture? Looking to cap off a day of boutique shopping? Downtown Englewood has all the answers and can accommodate a full evening of leisure. Grab dinner at Lulu Mediterranean Grill, which boasts a beautiful dining room and the perfect balance of chic and cozy; or at Sofia, where you’ll find a menu filled with Italian favorites and craft cocktail options that make it a mainstay in our Readers’ Choice Awards. Then take a stroll to Bianco Nero Gelato for a bite of something cold and sweet—and this spot offers special dog-friendly cups as well, so your four-legged friend can also enjoy.
Hackensack. With public murals and art displays, a “Music on Main” busking program that keeps live music close at hand and, of course, plenty of options for great eats, you’ll find much to like in this city. For a taste that screams “summer,” check out Readers’ Choice nod for Best Barbecue, Cubby’s (the Hackensack Steak is highly recommended). For a killer happy hour and elevated pub fare, stop by the Whiskey Priest, which is also a great place to watch a game in good company. On Friday nights, it isn’t a long walk to Atlantic Street Park, where you can take in the Sounds of the Summer free live concert series, sponsored by Hackensack Performing Arts Center—and you can pick up ice cream at Hackensack Ice Cream & Coffee Shop on the way.
Ramsey. This compact downtown puts lots of choices for a great evening right at your fingertips—close and walkable, with something to please any taste. Looking for an evening of elevated French cuisine? Café Panache is a Readers’ Choice regular in the French Restaurant, Romantic Restaurant and BYOB Restaurant categories and has a rotating seasonal menu, so there’s always something new. Something more laid-back? Brady’s At The Station is one of the best Irish pubs in the area. And you have options for dessert—grab ice cream or Italian ice at the local Uncle Louie G‘s, or wander over to L’Arte della Pasticceria for gelato, granita and sorbetti, along with pastries and cookies.
Ridgewood. Filled with places to eat, places to shop and places to sit, Ridgewood is the perfect spot to spend a summer evening. For an upscale vibe and modern American cuisine, opt for the Steel Wheel Tavern, which also offers live music from talented locals nearly every night (Andover Valley, who plays 1970s Americana, early R&B and classic rock, takes the stage Saturday). Get the most of the summer air with the Terrazza Rooftop at Felina and eat woodfire pizza with a view. Then end the evening at one of Bergen’s favorite ice cream shops, Van Dyk’s (and remember, this establishment only takes cash!).
Westwood. It’s always a good idea to spend some time in the local hub, filled with shopping options, eateries and beautiful scenery. For something seasonal you can sink your teeth into, Westwood Prime Eats got a nod for Bergen’s Best Burger in last year’s Readers’ Choice Awards. Farmhouse Cafe & Eatery, meanwhile, offers a farm-to-table sensibility and many delicious sandwich options, plus upscale appetizers to get the whole table smiling. If you’re looking for great drinks and ambiance, look no further than Five Dimes Brewery, where you’ll find vibrant seasonal suds and live music. And you don’t need to look far for the place to end your night—Conrad’s is a staple on best-of lists and has had nearly 100 years to prefect its candy and ice cream.
Have summer sunset pictures you want to show off? Make sure to tag us on Instagram @bergenmanj in all your best moments!
